The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has officially called prescription drug abuse an epidemic. Prescription drug abuse is using medication in a way not intended by your doctor. While it is okay to take medication as your doctor prescribes, misusing any drug is dangerous.

Facts about prescription drug abuse

• People who abuse medication may steal from a friend or relative.
• Having prescription pain medications in your home increases your risk for theft.

How to protect yourself from abuse

• Take medication only as directed by your doctor.
• Medications at risk for abuse should be locked up or kept out of sight. Examples of these medications include pain medications, sleeping pills and anti-anxiety medications.
• Keep medication in the original container with the label attached.
• Dispose of all unused and expired medications appropriately. Your pharmacist can tell you how.

For more information on this and other types of healthcare fraud, waste and abuse, click here.

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